For the first time since he sustained a Grade 2 hamstring strain against the Rams on Dec. 4, San Francisco's All-Pro linebacker took part in practice Thursday. Willis was a limited participant in the non-contact session.

On Tuesday, Willis, speaking to reporters for the first time since his injury, said he was hopeful he could return Saturday when the Niners visit Seattle.

In Willis' absence, Larry Granthas played well, collecting 16 tackles and defending five passes in two starts.

Ginn still sidelined: After sealing a season-opening 33-17 win against the Seahawks with two fourth-quarter returns for touchdowns, it appears Ted Ginnwon't have a chance to reprise his Week 1 performance against Seattle.

The wide receiver missed his second straight day of practice after he sustained an ankle injury on the second-half kickoff Monday against the Steelers.

Ginn walked through the locker room Thursday without a noticeable limp, suggesting he won't be sidelined for an extended period of time.

Special-teams standout Blake Costanzomissed his second straight practice because of an unspecified personal matter.

A Harbaugh Christmas: Who had it better than 49ers head coach Jim Harbaughwhen he was a kid on Christmas? Well, maybe a few people.